"When you have a heavy snowfall followed immediately by a significant amount of rain, a lot of weight is added to a roof," notes
Additional problems can develop when there is a sudden freeze, which is forecast for the GTA. "Any standing water on a flat roof can freeze, leading to blockages of drains and the addition of more weight the roof must bear." Ice formation on a flat roof can also cause tears or fissures in the membrane, resulting in water leaks. Prompt removal of excess snow and ice limits this risk and may be a condition of insurance coverage.
Homeowners should take care when it comes to removing snow or ice from a roof, cautions
Other tips for homeowners include:
- Make sure heating cable systems are deployed, operating properly and pose no electrical hazards resulting from nicks in the cable or poor connections. - Clear a three-foot area around the perimeter of sloping roofs to allow proper run-off when roof snow melts
For further information: Craig Bennett by email ([email protected]) or phone ((416) 785-5129); Avenue Road Roofing, 45 Wingold Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M6B 1P8, Tel: (416) 785-5129, Fax: (416) 785-6485, www.avenueroadroofing.com
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